NFL insider opens up about Kevin O'Connell trade rumors as $7,000,000 Vikings HC heads into contract year

While trade rumors swirl around Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell, NFL insider Adam Schefter has dismissed speculation about his departure. The Vikings' leadership appears determined to retain their successful head coach, especially following their recent playoff appearance.

Schefter, ESPN's senior NFL insider, brings significant weight to these discussions as one of the league's most connected reporters.

Speaking on the Pat McAfee Show on January 17, 2025, Schefter addressed growing speculation about Kevin O'Connell's future in Minnesota. The timing of these discussions follows the Vikings' 27-9 wild-card playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams.

"I don't see him getting traded. I think that the Wilf family is going to want to hold on to him. He's going to be entering the last year of his deal," Schefter said. "I think teams that have coaches who they've identified as their future don't typically let guys go into the last year of their deal."

Kevin O'Connell has built an impressive 34-17 regular season record since taking the helm in February 2022. His current salary sits under $7 million annually, notably below market value for successful NFL head coaches. The Vikings have made the playoffs twice during his tenure, though they hold a 0-2 postseason record.

Kevin O'Connell's commitment to the Vikings runs deep

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During Thursday's press conference, Kevin O'Connell directly addressed his future and rumors of tension with ownership.

"I do," he stated firmly when asked about wanting a contract extension. "I've had great dialogue with our ownership this week and reflection as the season came to an end."

The Vikings' recent playoff exit came after a challenging season. Their 14-2 squad fell to the Detroit Lions in Week 18, losing both the NFC North title and the No. 1 playoff seed. Against the Rams, quarterback Sam Darnold struggled heavily, losing a postseason-record 82 yards on nine sacks.

According to Schefter, NFL head coach salaries typically range from $8-9 million for first-year contracts, with middle-tier coaches earning $11-13 million. Top-tier coaches can command up to $20 million annually.

The Star Tribune's Ben Goessling noted Minnesota's traditional approach to extensions. The team typically waits until the final contract year before finalizing deals with coaches and general managers. This pattern emerged with former coach Mike Zimmer, who received his first extension after two seasons in 2016.

With both O'Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah's contracts set to expire after 2025, the Vikings face crucial decisions. Given their successful three-year competitive rebuild and O'Connell's strong leadership, contract discussions appear poised to advance in the coming months.